Ivana Humena

During my recent visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Venice, I was deeply inspired by the genius of this Renaissance master. As a History and English teacher, walking through the exhibits, surrounded by Leonardo’s ingenious inventions and sketches, I felt an urge to bring his creative spirit into my classroom. 
The moment I spotted the large-scale Vitruvian Man on the wall, an idea sparked — what if my students could step into Leonardo’s shoes? I immediately visualised and designed a lesson where students recreate his inventions on a smaller scale using cardboard, plaster, or textile or they trace the silhouette of a classmate to imitate the Vitruvian Man on a large piece of paper, blending art, science, and history. This hands-on activity will not only help them appreciate Leonardo’s genius but also connect historical innovation with their own creativity — a perfect way to make history come alive through language, imagination, and discovery. I left the museum determined to bring Leonardo’s inventive spirit into my classroom. His blend of art, science, and imagination sparked an idea for a creative lesson plan. Here it is: